CBSE Master Guide | Free Study Material for Class 9 | Notes & Sample Papers
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Answer should be 200-250 words. Each question carries 7 marks. Use diagrams if necessary.
Q29.
Explain the geographic location of India in detail, covering its latitudinal and longitudinal extent, and its position in the world. How does this location influence India's geography and climate? (7 marks)
7 Marks
Q30.
Discuss the significance of the Standard Meridian (82°30'E) in detail. Why was this specific longitude chosen instead of others? How does it affect the daily life of people living in different regions of India? (7 marks)
7 Marks
Q31.
Analyze India's strategic position at the head of the Indian Ocean. How has this geographical position contributed to India's historical, cultural, and economic importance? Discuss the role of the Deccan Peninsula in this context. (7 marks)
7 Marks
Q32.
Describe India's neighboring countries and island nations. Explain the geopolitical significance of India being surrounded by these nations. How does the presence of these neighbors influence India's foreign policy and regional relations? (7 marks)
Attempt the question and draw/label as required. Total 8 marks.
Q33.
On an outline map of India, mark and label the following: (8 marks)
1. The Tropic of Cancer (with latitude) (1 mark)
2. Standard Meridian (82°30'E) with Mirzapur (1 mark)
3. Andaman & Nicobar Islands (1 mark)
4. Lakshadweep Islands (1 mark)
5. Any THREE neighboring countries (3 marks)
6. Palk Strait and Gulf of Mannar (1 mark)
Note: Use appropriate symbols and colors. Provide a legend for the map.
8 Marks
✅ ANSWER KEY WITH EXPLANATIONS
Chapter: India - Size and Location
Total Questions: 33 | Total Marks: 80
🎯 SECTION A: MCQ ANSWERS (20 Marks)
Q1. Answer: A) 8°4'N and 37°6'N
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
India's latitudinal extent is from 8°4'N to 37°6'N, covering approximately 29°2' of latitude.
This means India stretches about 3,214 km from south to north.
Kanniyakumari (southernmost point) is at 8°4'N latitude.
Kashmir (northernmost mainland point) is at 37°6'N latitude.
Q2. Answer: C) 7th
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
India covers 3.28 million square kilometers of land area.
The top 7 countries by area are: Russia, Canada, USA, China, Brazil, Australia, and India.
India accounts for approximately 2.4% of the world's total geographical area.
Q3. Answer: B) Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
The Standard Meridian is located at 82°30'E longitude.
It passes through Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh.
This meridian was chosen because it runs through the middle of India, making it fair for both eastern and western regions.
India Standard Time (IST) is based on this meridian.
Q4. Answer: A) 23°30'
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
The Tropic of Cancer passes at 23°30'N latitude.
It divides India into almost two equal parts.
It passes through the states of Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Tripura.
This line separates tropical climate (south) from subtropical/temperate climate (north).
Q5. Answer: B) 3.28 million km²
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
India's total area is 3,287,263 km² (approximately 3.28 million km²).
This includes mainland, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep Islands.
Q6. Answer: C) Northern
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
India's southernmost point (Kanniyakumari) is at 8°4'N latitude, which is in the Northern Hemisphere.
The equator is at 0° latitude, so any place with North latitude is in the Northern Hemisphere.
Q7. Answer: C) Lakshadweep Islands
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
Lakshadweep Islands are located in the Arabian Sea on the southwest of mainland India.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands are in the Bay of Bengal, not the Arabian Sea.
Maldives is an independent country, not part of India.
Q8. Answer: B) Bay of Bengal
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
Andaman and Nicobar Islands are located in the Bay of Bengal to the southeast of mainland India.
They extend India's territory and maritime boundary in the southeast direction.
Q9. Answer: B) It runs through the middle of India
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
The 82°30'E meridian was chosen because it runs approximately through the middle of India.
This ensures fairness to both eastern and western regions of the country.
It is the basis for India Standard Time (IST).
Q10. Answer: C) 15,200 km
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
India's land boundary is approximately 15,200 km.
This includes boundaries with Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
Q11. Answer: B) Bangladesh
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
Bangladesh shares the longest land boundary with India (approximately 4,096 km).
India borders China, but not contiguously along a single line.
Q12. Answer: B) Sri Lanka
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
The Palk Strait separates India from Sri Lanka.
The width of Palk Strait is only about 55 km at its narrowest point.
Historically, there was a land bridge connecting India and Sri Lanka called "Adam's Bridge" or "Rama Setu".
Q13. Answer: B) Indian Ocean
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
The Deccan Peninsula extends southward into the Indian Ocean.
This geographical feature makes India a significant maritime power.
The ocean is named after India because of its strategic location in relation to the Indian subcontinent.
Q14. Answer: A) 68°7'E to 97°25'E
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
India's longitudinal extent is from 68°7'E to 97°25'E.
This covers approximately 29°18' of longitude.
This equates to about 2,933 km from west to east.
Q15. Answer: C) 2 hours
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
The sun rises about 2 hours earlier in Arunachal Pradesh (east) compared to Gujarat (west).
This is because of the 29°18' longitudinal spread across India.
The Earth rotates 15° longitude per hour, so 29°18' ÷ 15° ≈ 2 hours.
Q16. Answer: C) 7,516.6 km
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
The total coastline length of India including mainland, Andaman & Nicobar, and Lakshadweep is 7,516.6 km.
Just the mainland coastline is approximately 6,100 km.
The islands add significant length to India's coastline.
Q17. Answer: C) Thailand
Correct Answer: Thailand is NOT a neighbor of India.
🎯 Key Points:
India's land neighbors are: Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
India's sea neighbors are: Sri Lanka and Maldives.
Thailand is not directly adjacent to India; Myanmar (Burma) separates them.
Q18. Answer: B) 2.4%
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
India's 3.28 million km² represents approximately 2.4% of Earth's total geographical area.
Despite being only 2.4% of world's land, India hosts about 17% of the world's population.
Q19. Answer: C) Nicobar Islands
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
Indira Point is the southernmost point of India, located in the Nicobar Islands.
It is at 6°45'N latitude.
Unfortunately, Indira Point got submerged under sea water during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
Q20. Answer: B) Arabian Sea
Explanation:
🎯 Key Points:
Lakshadweep Islands are located in the Arabian Sea to the southwest of mainland India.
These islands are known for their beautiful coral reefs and pristine beaches.
✍️ SECTION B: SHORT ANSWER SOLUTIONS (24 Marks)
Q21. Significance of Tropic of Cancer
Answer (60-80 words):
The Tropic of Cancer at 23°30'N latitude divides India into almost two equal parts. It passes through eight states creating significant geographical and climatic variations. South of this line, India experiences a tropical climate with consistent high temperatures throughout the year. North of the Tropic, the climate becomes subtropical and temperate, with distinct seasonal variations. This line is crucial for understanding India's agricultural zones, vegetation patterns, and regional climate characteristics. It also influences day length, becoming more extreme as you move north from this line.
Key Points to Include:
Divides India into almost equal parts (23°30'N)
Passes through 8 states: Gujarat, Rajasthan, MP, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura
Tropical climate south; subtropical/temperate north
Affects vegetation and agricultural patterns
Influences day length variations
Q22. Importance of Standard Meridian
Answer (60-80 words):
The Standard Meridian at 82°30'E passing through Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh serves as the reference for India Standard Time (IST). It was chosen because it runs through the middle of India, ensuring fairness to both eastern and western regions. Without it, the 2-hour time difference between Gujarat and Arunachal Pradesh would cause confusion in transportation, communication, and administration. The IST is UTC+5:30, making it uniform across all of India regardless of local sunrise times, enabling synchronized functioning of railways, banks, schools, and other institutions nationwide.
Key Points to Include:
Located at 82°30'E through Mirzapur, UP
Basis for India Standard Time (IST)
Chosen because it runs through middle of India
Solves 2-hour time difference between east and west
Enables synchronized national functioning
IST = UTC + 5:30
Q23. Latitudinal and Longitudinal Extent
Answer (60-80 words):
India's latitudinal extent is from 8°4'N to 37°6'N, covering approximately 29°2' of latitude, which translates to about 3,214 km from south to north. The southernmost point is Kanniyakumari and northernmost is in Kashmir. India's longitudinal extent is from 68°7'E to 97°25'E, spanning approximately 29°18' of longitude, equivalent to about 2,933 km from west to east. This vast expanse from Gujarat to Arunachal Pradesh creates diverse climate zones, vegetation types, and cultural regions, contributing to India's rich geographical and cultural diversity.
Key Points to Include:
Latitude: 8°4'N to 37°6'N (29°2' span = 3,214 km)
Kanniyakumari (south) to Kashmir (north)
Longitude: 68°7'E to 97°25'E (29°18' span = 2,933 km)
Creates diverse climate and vegetation zones
Contributes to cultural diversity
Q24. Time Zone Explanation
Answer (60-80 words):
A time zone is a region where the same standard time is used throughout. Theoretically, Earth has 24 time zones (one for every 15° of longitude). India maintains a single time zone despite spanning 29°18' of longitude, which would normally require 2 different time zones. This is achieved through the Standard Meridian at 82°30'E. Instead of following local solar time, India uses IST (UTC+5:30) based on this central meridian. This unified approach eliminates confusion and ensures synchronized functioning of national systems like railways, banks, and government offices across the vast country.
Key Points to Include:
Definition of time zone
Theoretical: 24 zones (15° each)
India uses single time zone
Based on 82°30'E Standard Meridian
IST = UTC + 5:30
Ensures national synchronization
Q25. Three Neighboring Countries
Answer (60-80 words):
1. Nepal (North): Located to the north of India, sharing a long border of about 1,751 km. It is a mountainous country in the Himalayas. 2. Bangladesh (East): Situated to the east of India, sharing the longest international border with India (~4,096 km). It is surrounded by India on three sides. 3. Pakistan (West): Located to the northwest of India, sharing a border of about 3,323 km. It is across the Indus Valley. Each neighbor has significant historical, cultural, and political relationships with India, influencing the subcontinent's geopolitics.
Key Points to Include:
Nepal - North - 1,751 km border - Himalayan
Bangladesh - East - 4,096 km border (longest) - Surrounded on 3 sides
Pakistan - West/Northwest - 3,323 km border
Can also mention: China, Bhutan, Myanmar, Afghanistan
Q26. Andaman & Nicobar vs Lakshadweep
Answer (60-80 words):
Andaman & Nicobar Islands: Located in the Bay of Bengal to the southeast of mainland India. They are volcanic in origin and larger in area. Lakshadweep Islands: Located in the Arabian Sea to the southwest of mainland India. They are coral islands formed by coral reefs. Andaman & Nicobar extends India's territory eastward and gives it a presence in the Bay of Bengal, while Lakshadweep extends India westward in the Arabian Sea. Both are important for India's maritime boundaries, fisheries, and strategic position in the Indian Ocean region.
Comparison Points:
Andaman & Nicobar - Bay of Bengal (Southeast) vs Lakshadweep - Arabian Sea (Southwest)
Andaman & Nicobar - Larger area vs Lakshadweep - Smaller area
Both important for maritime boundaries
Both enhance India's strategic position
Q27. India's Strategic Position
Answer (60-80 words):
India as a southward extension of Asia gives it a unique strategic position at the head of the Indian Ocean. The Deccan Peninsula protrudes into the ocean, allowing India to control crucial maritime routes. From the western coast, India connects with Europe, Africa, and West Asia. From the eastern coast, it connects with Southeast and East Asia. This central location makes India a natural bridge between civilizations. Historically, the Silk Route passed through India. Today, India's maritime position ensures its importance in global trade, geopolitics, and regional security arrangements in the Indian Ocean.
Key Points to Include:
Southward extension of Asia
Head of Indian Ocean position
Deccan Peninsula control
Bridge between East and West
Western coast: Europe, Africa, West Asia
Eastern coast: Southeast and East Asia
Historical: Silk Route
Modern: Trade and geopolitics
Q28. Impact of India's Size
Answer (60-80 words):
India's vast size (3.28 million km²) creates diverse climatic zones from tropical in the south to temperate in the north due to latitudinal variations. This results in varied vegetation patterns: tropical forests, deciduous forests, grasslands, and alpine meadows. Rainfall also varies greatly due to the Tropic of Cancer dividing the country. The diverse geography supports numerous agricultural products and lifestyles. Culturally, India's size has allowed development of distinct regional languages (22 official), cuisines, traditions, and art forms. Different regions have unique architectural styles, festivals, and customs. The vast territory with diverse populations demonstrates unity in diversity, making India a multicultural civilization with rich heritage spread across varied geographical zones.
Latitudinal and Longitudinal Extent: India extends from 8°4'N to 37°6'N latitude (29°2' span, approximately 3,214 km) and from 68°7'E to 97°25'E longitude (29°18' span, approximately 2,933 km). The southernmost point is Kanniyakumari, and the northernmost is in Kashmir.
Global Position: India is located in South Asia, lying entirely in the Northern Hemisphere. It is a southward extension of the Asian continent and occupies a central position between East and West Asia. The Indian Ocean's strategic location at its tip makes India a gateway between different continents.
Influence on Geography: The Tropic of Cancer (23°30'N) divides India into two distinct climate zones. South of this line, India experiences a tropical climate with consistent high temperatures. North of it, the climate becomes subtropical and temperate with distinct seasons. This creates diverse vegetation zones including tropical rainforests, deciduous forests, grasslands, and alpine meadows.
Influence on Climate: India's vast latitudinal extent creates significant variations in temperature, rainfall, and seasonal patterns. The Deccan Peninsula's southward extension into the Indian Ocean influences monsoon patterns. The Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats affect rainfall distribution. The Himalayas in the north protect India from cold winds. The diversity in longitude (29°18') creates a 2-hour time difference in sunrise between Gujarat and Arunachal Pradesh, necessitating a unified Standard Meridian (82°30'E) for India Standard Time.
Conclusion: India's unique geographical location combines to create a land of remarkable diversity in climate, vegetation, and culture, making it one of the world's most geographically significant countries.
Points to Cover:
Latitudinal extent: 8°4'N to 37°6'N (3,214 km)
Longitudinal extent: 68°7'E to 97°25'E (2,933 km)
Position in world: South Asia, Northern Hemisphere
Tropic of Cancer impact on climate division
Tropical vs subtropical/temperate zones
Vegetation diversity due to latitudinal variation
Monsoon patterns influenced by geography
Mountain barriers affecting climate
Need for Standard Meridian
Q30. Standard Meridian Significance
Answer (200-250 words):
What is the Standard Meridian? The Standard Meridian is the reference longitude (82°30'E) that passes through Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh, used to determine India Standard Time (IST), which is UTC+5:30.
Why 82°30'E? This specific longitude was chosen because it approximately runs through the middle of India. This central location ensures fairness to both eastern and western regions. A meridian at the extreme east or west would disadvantage one part of the country. The 82°30'E meridian balances the interests of all regions.
The Problem it Solves: India's longitudinal extent spans 29°18', creating a 2-hour time difference between its easternmost (Arunachal Pradesh) and westernmost (Gujarat) points. Due to Earth's rotation, the sun rises 2 hours earlier in Arunachal Pradesh than in Gujarat. Without a standard time:
- Railway schedules would be confusing
- Communication would be difficult
- Government offices would have different timings
- Business and commerce would face coordination issues
Impact on Daily Life: The Standard Meridian enables:
- Unified railway timetables across the nation
- Synchronized broadcasting and telecommunications
- Coordinated business hours (banks, schools, offices)
- Standard working hours nationwide (9 AM to 5 PM)
- Although local sunrise times vary, everyone follows IST
Importance: This unified time zone is crucial for a geographically vast nation with diverse regions to function as a cohesive unit. It symbolizes India's unity despite geographical diversity and enables efficient national administration.
Points to Cover:
Definition: 82°30'E through Mirzapur, UP
Basis for IST (UTC+5:30)
Why central location chosen (fairness)
Problem: 2-hour time difference between east-west
Sun rises 2 hours earlier in east
Solution: Unified time zone for coordination
Impact on railways, communication, business
Enables national coordination
Symbol of unity in diversity
Q31. India's Strategic Position
Answer (200-250 words):
Location at the Head of Indian Ocean: India's unique position at the head of the Indian Ocean, as a southward extension of Asia, gives it unparalleled strategic importance. No other country has such a long coastline (7,516.6 km including islands) on the Indian Ocean.
Historical Significance: This location enabled India to be a center of ancient trade routes. The Silk Route connected China to the Mediterranean, and India was a crucial junction. Indian merchants traded spices, textiles, and goods to Southeast Asia, Middle East, and Europe. The Indian Ocean was historically called the "Indian merchants' ocean" due to Indian maritime dominance.
Cultural Importance: India's position allowed spread of Buddhism to Southeast Asia via maritime routes. Indian art, architecture, philosophy, and literature influenced Asian cultures. The Indian cultural sphere extended across Southeast Asia (Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia all show Indian influences).
Role of Deccan Peninsula: The Deccan Peninsula extends southward into the Indian Ocean, creating:
- Control over crucial maritime trade routes
- Connection to both Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal
- Strategic position overlooking Indian Ocean
- Access to multiple seas for commerce and defense
Modern Economic Significance: Today, India controls important shipping lanes through which global trade passes. The Indian Ocean is vital for global oil supplies and international commerce. India's position makes it essential for regional and global security arrangements.
Geopolitical Importance: India's location makes it a key player in South Asian geopolitics and Indian Ocean security. Its maritime location gives it leverage in international affairs and makes it an important strategic partner for global powers.
Points to Cover:
Head of Indian Ocean position
Unique long coastline (7,516.6 km)
Silk Route importance
Ancient maritime trade dominance
Spread of Buddhism via sea routes
Cultural influence on Asia
Deccan Peninsula control benefits
Connection to both Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal
Modern shipping lanes control
Global oil supply routes
Regional security importance
Q32. Neighboring Countries & Geopolitical Significance
Answer (200-250 words):
Land Neighbors:
1. Pakistan (West) - 3,323 km border, shares Indus Valley
2. Afghanistan (Northwest) - Shares mountain passes for ancient routes
3. China (North) - 3,488 km border across Himalayas
4. Nepal (North) - 1,751 km border, Himalayan neighbor
5. Bhutan (Northeast) - Small Himalayan nation
6. Bangladesh (East) - 4,096 km border (longest), surrounded on 3 sides
7. Myanmar (Southeast) - 1,468 km border
Sea Neighbors:
1. Sri Lanka - 55 km away across Palk Strait
2. Maldives - Island nation in Indian Ocean
Geopolitical Significance: India's neighbors create a complex geopolitical situation:
- Pakistan: Historical tensions and wars (1947, 1962, 1971, 1999)
- China: Border disputes, emerging superpower competition
- Bangladesh: Shared rivers, immigration issues, cultural ties
- Nepal & Bhutan: Friendly neighbors, strategic importance
- Myanmar: Growing regional importance, ASEAN gateway
Impact on Foreign Policy: These neighbors influence India's:
- Regional security strategies
- Multilateral engagement (SAARC)
- Trade partnerships
- Military positioning
- Diplomatic initiatives
Current Issues:
- Border disputes with China
- Pakistan-related terrorism
- Regional cooperation through BIMSTEC
- Maritime security in Indian Ocean
- Refugee and migration issues
India's surrounded position requires careful balancing of relations with multiple neighbors, making diplomacy crucial for regional stability and India's development.
Points to Cover:
List all 7 land neighbors with borders
List sea neighbors: Sri Lanka and Maldives
Pakistan: Historical tensions and conflicts
China: Border disputes and superpower competition
Bangladesh: Shared resources and migration
Nepal & Bhutan: Friendly relations
Myanmar: ASEAN gateway importance
Regional organization: SAARC
Strategic military positioning
Diplomatic balance requirements
Trade and economic partnerships
Maritime security concerns
📊 MARKING SCHEME & EXPECTED ANSWERS
Section
Question Type
Number of Questions
Marks per Question
Total Marks
A
Multiple Choice (MCQ)
20
1
20
B
Short Answer (60-80 words)
8
3
24
C
Long Answer (200-250 words)
4
7
28
D
Map & Practical Skills
1
8
8
TOTAL
80 MARKS
Assessment Criteria for Long Answer Questions (Section C - 7 marks each):
Criteria
Marks
Description
Content & Knowledge
3
Accurate, comprehensive, well-organized information with relevant examples
Structure & Clarity
2
Clear introduction, body, conclusion; logical flow of ideas
Terminology & Language
1
Correct use of geographical terms; clear, grammatically correct language
Diagrams/Illustrations
1
Relevant diagrams (if required); correctly labeled and explained
TOTAL
7 MARKS
Assessment Criteria for Short Answer Questions (Section B - 3 marks each):
Criteria
Marks
Description
Accuracy & Relevance
1.5
Correct answer directly addressing the question
Explanation & Details
1
Relevant supporting information and brief explanation
Language & Presentation
0.5
Clear language, proper spelling and grammar
TOTAL
3 MARKS
🗺️ SECTION D: MAP & PRACTICAL SOLUTION (8 Marks)
Q33. Map Marking (8 marks)
Expected Answer:
A student should draw/mark an outline map of India with the following features clearly marked and labeled:
Marking Breakdown (8 marks total):
(1 mark) Tropic of Cancer (23°30'N) - drawn as a horizontal line passing through central India with latitude clearly labeled
(1 mark) Standard Meridian (82°30'E) - drawn as a vertical line through central India with Mirzapur marked and longitude labeled
(1 mark) Andaman & Nicobar Islands - correctly positioned in Bay of Bengal (southeast) with proper labeling
(1 mark) Lakshadweep Islands - correctly positioned in Arabian Sea (southwest) with proper labeling
(3 marks) Three Neighboring Countries - Any three from Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar - properly labeled with boundaries shown (1 mark each)
(1 mark) Palk Strait and Gulf of Mannar - marked between India and Sri Lanka with proper labels
Bonus (0.5 mark): Proper use of colors, symbols, and legend; neat presentation
Map Drawing Tips:
Use different colors for different features (e.g., red for Tropic of Cancer, blue for Standard Meridian)
Use proper symbols: Lines for latitudes/longitudes, circles or squares for locations
Include a legend explaining all symbols and colors used
Label should be clear and readable with proper spelling
Mark cardinal directions (North arrow)
Ensure all features are correctly positioned relative to India
Neatness and presentation are important
Island groups should be properly indicated and colored differently from mainland
